What’s My Car Worth? Get a Good Price Before You Sell.
When you’re ready to sell or upgrade, getting the price right matters. Asking what’s my car worth in NZ is really about finding an accurate valuation range that reflects real market demand. Online estimates can vary, so we're here to help you find a realistic range. Avoid under pricing and selling yourself short - you'll regret it later!
The quick answer: your car’s value depends on these 6 things
The year, make and model (and spec) - if you've gone for the sports model, it's probably worth a bit more!
How many kilometres your car has done - low kms usually means a better price.
Condition + wear and tear - buyers notice the basics fast, and it affects what they’ll pay.
Service history - regular maintenance pays off when it’s time to sell.
Demand in the car market - popular models tend to hold value better.
Location in NZ - bigger cities often bring more buyer demand.
Step-by-step: how to estimate your car valuation in NZ
Step 1: Find 5–10 similar listings (same model/spec)
Look at online marketplaces or car sales yards and find cars that match yours as closely as possible. Check fuel type, year range and kilometre band. Some sellers set a firm asking price while others hint at a likely sale price - note the gap between the two.
Step 2: Adjust for kilometres and condition
Use simple adjustment logic. If your car has higher kms and a few dents or scratches, expect the lower end of the range. If it has low kms and presents well, expect the higher end.
Step 3: Factor in wear and tear (what buyers notice first)
Potential buyers notice what they can see with the naked eye first. Tyre tread, dents and scratches, interior stains and lingering smells can put buyers off quickly. If a WOF is due soon or a service is coming up, buyers often use that to negotiate down.
Small fixes that can lift car value fast include:
Make sure your Warrant of Fitness and car registration are up to date, and gather service records and spare keys
Deep clean and deodorise the car so it presents well in photos and viewings
Step 4: Check the car market right now
Like the ever changing housing market, the car market is also subject to change. Fuel prices and interest rates can shift demand - your gas guzzling SUV is more likely to sell for more if fuel price is low. The season is also a factor: got a convertible? Summer is your season.
Online car valuation tools vs real-world value (and why they differ)
Online tools are a great starting point when trying to assess what your car is worth. Real value is what a buyer will pay this week for your exact car. The online tools won't know your method of sale, this means, whether you're trading in, selling privately or selling via a dealer.
You can choose to pay for an online car valuation alongside your listing comparisons.
“What’s my car worth?” - private sale vs trade-in vs selling to a dealer
Private sale
Selling privately means taking photos, writing listings, handling enquiries, negotiating, and confirming payment. Selling your car privately takes more effort, but you can pocket more cash.
Trade-in
Trade in your car and leave with another? This option is convenient, but you'll often get a lower price because of dealer reconditions + warranty + risk.
Sell your car to a dealer
Selling to a dealer can be simple and fast, with less admin. This option often suits people who want to upgrade quickly, are relocating, or prefer to avoid back-and-forth with buyers.
When you list your car with AutoFlip, our network of trusted dealers compete to buy your car. We focus on getting you the best price for your car.
Car Valuation FAQs
How do I determine what my car is worth in NZ?
Start by comparing your car to similar listings (same year, spec, kilometres and condition). For the most accurate range, upload your car information to AutoFlip and let us bring you real offers.
Is a “car valuation” the same as an appraisal?
Similar, but not quite. A car valuation estimates what your car is worth in the current market. Dealers typically give an appraisal when someone trades in a car.
Does mileage or wear and tear matter more?
Both matter, just in different ways. Mileage (kilometres) usually affects value in a predictable way: higher mileage typically means a lower valuation. Wear and tear can be the swing factor, including interior and exterior condition, accident history and maintenance.
Why is my car worth less than similar listings?
This is common. The word “similar” can hide important differences, and listings don’t always reflect what cars actually sell for. Market trends and regional demand can also shift what buyers are paying right now.
How much should I negotiate off the asking price?
No single number applies. Your car, your pricing, and current buyer demand all affect how much you can negotiate. If you sell through AutoFlip, our team handles negotiations for the best possible result.
Is it better to sell privately or trade in?
It comes down to what you want more: getting the most money, or keeping it quick and easy. AutoFlip is the middle ground, we aim for a strong outcome without you dealing with the messy parts.
Next step: get a realistic price range (without the guesswork)
List your car today, and let us look after the rest.
